Beginner Guides to Glock: Part 2

In this article, we are going to dig deeper into the various types of Glocks on the market and what you need to know in order to make an educated purchase. If you’re using your firearm for self defense, hunting, for concealed carry, or for your occupation, you’ll be able to get a better idea of what Glock model will suit your needs.

Glock 17

The G17 was Gaston Glock’s first pistol. The Glock 17 model is known as one of the most popular firearms on the market. This model was introduced in 1982 and several modified versions have been created since then: Glock 17L, Glock 17C, Glock 17MB, and Glock 17M. This model is the original 9x19mm Parabellum model, with a standard magazine capacity of 17 rounds.

Why use it?

Speed. Control. Accuracy. The 17 model is widely used by police forces for their quickness, never-fail reliability, and light weight body. An unloaded Glock 17 weights just 625 g/ 22.04 oz and a fully loaded Glock 17 weights 905 g / 31.93 oz. The height of the gun is 5.43 inches making it very comfortable to operate and carry. As mentioned, one of the top selling points for this firearm is the capacity, holding 17+1 rounds. This is a great firearm to consider carrying.

Specs

Caliber: 9mm

System: Safe Action

Length: 7.32 in

Height: 5.43 in

Magazine Capacity: 17 (standard)

Trigger Pull: 5.5 lbs

Trigger Travel: 0.5 in

G17 Size: Standard (full sized)

Glock 19

Along with the Glock 17, the Glock 19 is extremely popular, coming in at second on our list. Some firearm enthusiasts say that the Glock 19 is the perfect-sized glock and may be the easiest to manage. It has a 15 + 1 capacity and is about 1/2-inch shorter than the full-size model (overall length at 6.85 inches). It’s essentially a slightly scaled down version of the Glock 17 model.

Why use it?

The combination of the weight, barrel length and 9mm round make the Glock 19 a pleasure to shoot. Recoil is minimal and manageable. The slide is smooth and easy to operate without feeling like you’re getting a workout from racking it. The 5.5 lb trigger pull is consistent with guns in its class and comes as no surprise for a striker-fired handgun. It breaks smoothly and consistently. The model 19, despite its smaller size, still allows for a full grip. With the Glock 19, you be able to grip is easily in order to handle the gun accurately.

Specs

Caliber: 9x19 mm

System: Safe Action

Barrel Length: 4.02 inch

Height: 5.04 inch

Magazine Capacity: 15

Trigger Pull: 5.5 lbs

Trigger Distance: 2.80 inch

Glock Model 20

The Glock 20 is another favorable firearm within the industry. This model provides a safe and accurate finishing shot, especially when hunting big game. The Glock 20 may be one of the most common platforms for the 10mm, however it’s not best choice if you’re a beginner as many find it challenging to hold due to its size.

Why use it?

Glock 20 is built on a durable polymer frame that is lightweight yet packs a solid punch. With a total capacity of 16 rounds, external dimensions no larger than some 9x19s and a weight of just a tad over 30 ounces, the G20 represents all the fun you can pack into a readily portable package. “Hits were well centered, and I didn’t find the G20 to be any more difficult to manage than my like-sized pistol in .45 AUTO,” according to Mike Boyle of Personal Defense World.

Specs

Caliber: 10mm

System: Safe Action

Barrel Length: 4.61 inches

Height: 5.51 inch

Magazine Capacity: 15 +1

Trigger Distance: 2.85 inch

Glock 27

The last Glock we are going to highlight is the Glock 27 model. This model is known to be good for concealed carry. It is considered a sub-compact version of .40 caliber Smith & Wesson. At 6.49 inches long, 4.17 inches in height and just 1.18 inches thick, it is easy to conceal (during the summer months) in a quality holster while wearing shorts and a t-shirt. It’s a great option for women to carry, as well as men of smaller builds.

Why use it?

This model contains a robust caliber in a small package. However, the real game changer with this firearm is reliability. When you are carrying, you expect your gun to shoot properly every time you pull the trigger. If you’re ever in the unfortunate situation, you’ll be able to fully rely on this firearm. Glock brand, overall, follows through with what it advertises, offering reliability, accuracy with an easy to carry frame. We recommend this model for your every day carry.